Ducati has a long relationship with Pramac Team Principal Paolo Campinoti, whose squad is now factory-supported.

Under the guidance of Team Manager Francesco Guidotti, Pramac Racing will play a key role in the development of the Ducati Desmosedici GP13, and Ben Spies’ experience and talent will be essential to the project. In addition to being a winner and six-time podium finisher in MotoGP, the Texan won the 2009 Superbike World Championship and is a three-time AMA Superbike Champion.

Spies’ Ignite Pramac Racing Team Ducati Desmosedici GP13 prominently features the logo of new sponsor Ignite Asset Management, a New York-based, alternative-asset-management firm led by a group of hedge-fund industry veterans and supported by private investors with a passion for motorsports.

“I am excited to be a part of the Ducati family,” said Spies. “This is something I’ve wanted from the beginning of my racing career. My team and I have our work cut out for us and new goals to meet, but we’ll benefit from factory support and Audi coming on board. Ducati has four strong riders with different styles, which should improve the Desmosedici and bring it back up to the top where it belongs.”